"We support the legitimate authority but legitimacy should not deprive us of our legitimate rights..."

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Where are the ministers and deputies?

The Dewan Rakyat was almost deserted today with no sign of ministers and deputy ministers. This has caused several members of the Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club (BNBBC) to question their commitment.

Datuk Mohamad Aziz (BN-Sri Gading) regretted the absence of ministers and deputy ministers who should be giving priority by listening to what the members of parliament (MP) have to say.

"We are debating the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's address, something important but I can see only one deputy minister here. Is this not an important item? The Yang di-Pertuan Agong reminded MPs to be polite but sometimes we have to raise our voice. The Prime Minister is vacating his post but nobody seem to care," lamented the veteran MP.

Outspoken Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin (BN-Kinabatangan) also aired his unhappiness over the absence of many government representatives.

"When we raise our voice, people say we are rude. We may be on the government's side but this situation make us unhappy. The ministers and deputy ministers cannot be busy at the same time. If they don't have the time then replace them," he said.

Hmmm... something need to be done about that. However, this is not the latest trend. Ever since I started my Parliament-reporting in 1981, it has taken place... so many times.

This is our government we uphold. They are the ministers and deputy ministers we hope to bring about changes to a lot of weak systems. But there they are, attending to personal matters which can safeguard and prolong their political span.

Attitude problem, I suppose, especially those who have served for more than two terms. To them, the Dewan Rakyat excites them no more. It will be just a routine to them.

Shall we propose to the government or to Umno General Assembly next month to limit Cabinet members to only two terms tenure? That should apply to MPs, too!